Patek Philippe Beta 21 Ref. 3597 - Sunburst Champagne 'Sigma' Dial
As far as brand identity goes, Patek Philippe, unlike many brands, is seemingly free of being associated with any one model in particular, and instead enjoys a reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and a long-standing pedigree as a top Swiss manufacturer.
Of course, there are models and model families that are nothing short of icons (e.g., Nautilus, Calatrava, Grand Complications, etc.) but if you dig deep enough there are hidden gems that do not even fall into any of these families.
Take the piece that we have here for example. Predating the Nautilus by three years, this piece was not only the largest timepiece Patek Philippe had ever produced, but also the first piece to use a Quartz-powered movement.
The Beta 21 Calibre was produced in collaboration with a slew of other Swiss brands as a response to the quartz movements coming out of Japan a few years prior. While controversial at the time, and even in the decade after, there is absolutely no doubt that this movement bears great historical significance.
Drawing inspiration from the Ellipse family of watches, the Beta 21 utilized a 43mm 'TV'-style case crafted from solid gold. As a result, they are quite hefty. Most Beta 21s were actually produced with an integrated-style bracelet in matching gold, also a design characteristic borrowed from the Ellipse, but some, like the example that we have here, feature 'hidden' T-style lugs designed to be worn on leather.
Dating to circa the mid-late 1970s, this Ref. 3597 is offered in excellent overall condition. The case has been gently previously polished and now exhibits a faint 'rosy' or even orange oxidation in some areas. The hallmarks and some factory finishing remain present and visible and it shows normal signs of wear. Inside, the champagne dial is stunning, with a vibrant sunburst surface framed by a satin-finished outer minute track with black painted minute markers. Being a 'Sigma' dial, the indices are applied yellow gold units and also painted black in part, and are complimented by a matching handset.
Of course, inside you'll find one of Patek's Beta 21 calibres keeping that seconds hand sweeping almost perfectly smooth.
Calatrava or complications aren't for you? Look no further.
*To read more about the history of the Beta 21, check out this article from at our friends at Collectability.*
Condition Report & Details
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